In our increasingly digital world, where information streams at lightning speed and social media dominates much of our daily lives, prioritising mental health has never been more crucial. Today offers us a vital opportunity to pause and reflect on how we can better support ourselves and the young people around us – especially as they navigate a landscape fraught with challenges and pressures.
Many of us are aware of the pervasive presence of negative news and social media content, which can contribute to feelings of overwhelming anxiety and helplessness. Recognising these impacts is the first step toward creating supportive environments where everyone, including young people feel safe, understood, and empowered.
Understanding the Link Between Mental Health and Vulnerability
Over the past few years, our charity has worked hard to understand the critical relationship between mental health and vulnerability among young people. In fact, some reports indicate that up to 70% of youth who come into contact with the criminal justice system may experience mental health issues. In our own work, our mentors have recognised that overall wellbeing was significantly raised following Full Circle Programme support. Such insights highlight an urgent need for early intervention, accessible support services, and a compassionate approach that acknowledges the complexity of young people’s lives.
When mental health issues go unnoticed or unaddressed, they can increase the likelihood of young people becoming involved in risky or harmful behaviours, including exploitation, substance abuse, and in some cases, violence. Addressing these concerns early, through targeted support and intervention, can dramatically alter life trajectories, offering hope and a chance for a healthier future.
The Dual Nature of Social Media
Social media is an invaluable tool that creates connection across distances, helps young people discover communities, and provides platforms for creative expression. However, it also poses significant risks, some of which are hidden. Bullying, social comparison, addiction, and exposure to harmful content can all take a toll on mental wellbeing, with potential for catastrophic consequences.
As parents, educators, and community members, it’s important to create a space for open conversations about online experiences, encourage mindful digital habits, and help young people develop resilience against the negative influences they may encounter online.
Practical Strategies to Ensure Wellbeing and Reduce Risk
Supporting young people’s mental health involves a combination of structure, and compassionate proactive engagement. Here are some practical steps we have previously shared online:
- Create an open dialogue: Encourage young people to express their thoughts and feelings freely. Active listening without immediate responses or judgement helps to build trust and identify issues early.
- Promote a balanced lifestyle: Encourage engagement in physical activities, hobbies, and social groups. These can act as natural mood boosters and sources of enjoyment.
- Set clear boundaries and routines: Consistent rules and routines provide children with a sense of stability and security, which is vital for emotional health.
- Support positive role models: Whether teachers, family members, mentors, or community leaders, positive influences can inspire confidence and resilience.
- Be attentive to signs of distress: Changes in behaviour, withdrawal, or mood swings can indicate underlying issues. Don’t hesitate to seek professional support if needed. Whether that might be our charity for changes in behaviour, or mental health charities, including Mind, Mental Health UK and Young Minds.
- Promote emotional intelligence: Teach young people how to recognise, understand, and manage their emotions. This skill promotes self-awareness and helps them navigate challenges more effectively.
If you notice even a slight change in behaviour, it’s always best to talk about it and if necessary reach out to a professional or a charity like ours for support – sometimes, it may be nothing, but peace of mind is everything.
For doomscrolling tips or navigating feelings of overwhelm specifically, tap here.
Creating a Supportive Community
Our collective role in creating a supportive environment extends beyond individual actions. Schools, communities, and policymakers must also work together to ensure accessible mental health services, anti-bullying initiatives, and safe spaces for young people to express themselves.
Why Our Work Matters
This is why we do what we do. Our mission is rooted in a deep commitment to reduce youth violence and its devastating impact on families and communities. Every young person deserves the chance to thrive without fear or threat, and we are committed to supporting that goal through early identification and educational strategies that support those at risk before issues become entrenched. Prevention is always better than cure.
To find out more about our work tap here.
